Listeners will hear the smile in Vacker's narration, and Lulu will win their hearts.
Karissa Vacker joyfully narrates this nonfiction picture book. Listeners initially may be puzzled by Lulu's family: Are they humans? Apes? However, by the time it’s clear that Lulu is a bonobo destined to be returned to the wild, listeners will be fully invested in Lulu's connection to her human family—she can sign, use the fridge, and peruse magazines. Vacker’s narration sounds kind and caring as she recounts Lulu's transformation from beloved pet to respected wild bonobo. In the wild, it is Lulu's knowledge of being "other" that makes her a great leader, especially as she welcomes new bonobos to the group and nurtures them. An author’s note offers more scientific details.
Listeners will hear the smile in Vacker's narration, and Lulu will win their hearts. (Picture book. 4-8)Pub Date: March 10, 2026
Duration: 9 mins
DD ISBN: 9780063471726
Publisher: Harper Audio
Review Posted Online: May 19, 2026
This powerful story will stay with listeners long after the last word has been spoken.
Aria Mia Loberti masters the voice of seventh grader Roxie, expressing the jumble of emotions she feels as she struggles to fit in and find acceptance as her unique self. She was bullied at her old school because her parents are blind. Will a fresh start in a new town lead to friends who will see Roxie for who she is? Loberti also gives supporting characters unique voices. She conveys little brother Theo’s excitement, classmate Quinn’s superior attitude, and the wisdom of Charlie, a boy who also has blind parents. Jeff Ebner is outstanding as Nash, Penny’s guide dog, narrating chapters from his perspective and expressing his patience and insight.
This powerful story will stay with listeners long after the last word has been spoken. (Fiction. 9-13)Pub Date: June 2, 2026
Duration: 7 hrs, 41 mins
DD ISBN: 9798217412556
Publisher: Listening Library
Review Posted Online: Aug. 4, 2026
Kirkus Reviews Issue: Sept. 15, 2026
The combination of sound effects and Quinn's exaggerated character voices make this animation for the ears.
Joshua Quinn narrates this short book featuring Waffles, a friendly dog who wants a hug, and his haughty housemate, Julius the cat. Quinn gives each a fitting voice—eager and goofy for Waffles, slow and somewhat disdainful for Julius. The two interact in typical cat and dog fashion. Classic cartoon-style sound effects accompany Waffles' attempts to hug his friend. Boings, zings, cymbal crashes, howling, meowing, and more punctuate the music and narration. Julius is not interested in hugs. After a day of trying, Waffles finally settles down for a nap to the sound of a music box lullaby. A tired Julius snuggles in beside him.
The combination of sound effects and Quinn's exaggerated character voices make this animation for the ears. (Picture book. 3-7)Pub Date: June 2, 2026
Duration: 7 mins
DD ISBN: 9781250443540
Publisher: Macmillan Audio
Review Posted Online: July 7, 2026
Kirkus Reviews Issue: Aug. 15, 2026
© Copyright 2026 Kirkus Media LLC. All Rights Reserved.
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